NZ First leader Winston Peters is calling for calm after the US imposed a surprising 125% tariff on Chinese goods, raising global trade concerns.
US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on many recent tariffs, including a 10% baseline tariff.
Peters noted that New Zealand relies heavily on exports and must prioritise long-term resilience and expanding its export base.
He believes this is not the end of the economy, as tariffs reflect the US government’s goals.
“I think beginning we’re getting far too immature, we think this is going to lead to some breakout of war. No, two countries, the two biggest economies in the world, are at odds on what is fair and what is right, and it will not end up in the same way as it’s being pictured now,” says Peters.
